Ep. 69 - Cutting Edge Collaboration How a Game Warden and a Knife Maker Forged Innovation and Sound w/ Lt. John Nores & Mike Vellekamp (w/ V Nives)

Son of a Blitch

When former game warden Lt. John Nores, Jr., and master knife-maker and V Nives owner, Mike Vellekamp, joined forces, the result was nothing short of extraordinary. Their collaboration transcends mere business, merging the rugged beauty of knife-making with the resonating power of music, creating an unforgettable narrative that honors service, survival, and environmental conservation.
The centerpiece of their partnership was their work on the V Nives Thin Green Line Signature "Trailblazer," a knife designed to meet the grueling demands of game wardens in the field. This blade is not just a tool; it is a symbol of resilience and innovation, incorporating essential features such as a seatbelt cutter and glass break. Norris, with his extensive field experience, and Vellekamp, with his artistic vision, have created a knife that is both practical and emblematic of the guardianship over natural resources. (Podcast Host, George Blitch, has been using this as his Every Day Carry (EDC) for over two years)
As the episode unfolds, the conversation seamlessly transitions to the realm of music with Mike's band, Metasin, whose debut album "Evilution" serves as a powerful vessel for storytelling. The track "Hidden War," an auditory tribute to Norris's impactful experiences detailed in his book of the same name, demonstrates the unique intersection where melody meets the narrative, amplifying the message of the unseen battles game wardens face against wildlife exploitation.
Delving deeper into personal connections, the hosts discuss the inception of Metasin, a band that rose from a chance reunion to become a voice for themes as heavy as human trafficking, to the struggles of reintegrating post-military life. The meticulous care in the songwriting process is evident, with each track carrying a distinct personality and message, leaving listeners to discover and interpret the meanings in ways that resonate with their personal experiences.
The conversation also broaches the subject of legacy, where both Norris and Vellekamp share their aspirations to leave a positive mark on the world through their respective crafts. Norris's dedication to protecting the wilderness and Vellekamp's passion for knife-making and music production coalesce into a shared mission of educating and uniting people around pressing global issues.
Listeners are invited to participate in the philanthropic efforts of the duo, from supporting the Trailblazer series to contributing to a GoFundMe campaign aimed at helping their drummer's wife in her battle with cancer. The episode ends with a sense of anticipation for the future, promising more innovation, inspiration, and the power of collaborative efforts to drive change.
As the podcast episode draws to a close, it becomes clear that the stories shared are more than just a series of events; they are a testament to the impact of blending diverse talents and passions for a greater cause. The harmony between blades and ballads is a poignant reminder of how art, in all its forms, can be a force for conservation, community, and the crafting of a legacy that echoes in the wild.
In this space where craftsmanship and melody converge, Norris and Velikamp have forged not just a knife, but a narrative that cuts to the heart of what it means to create with purpose. The episode stands as an inspiring testament to the possibilities that arise when individuals come together to combine their skills for the betterment of society and the environment.

Chapters

1. Knife Maker and Musician Collaboration (00:00:20)

2. Creating Music and Building Friendship (00:11:01)

3. Band Origins and Recording Progress (00:17:45)

4. Creating Music Inspired by Friendship (00:28:37)

5. Musical Ambiguity and Inspiration (00:40:42)

6. Legacy and Purpose in Life (00:53:36)

7. Empowering Acts of Philanthropy and Art (00:57:27)

8. Trailblazer Series and GoFundMe Support (01:08:06)

9. Thanking George for Interview Experience (01:13:48)